Hello, I'm Dr. Sarah, a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist. I understand you're asking about the safety of eating opah during pregnancy. It's a great question, and one that many expectant mothers have.

Let's dive into the details:

Opah (also known as moonfish) is a large, deep-sea fish with a unique circulatory system that allows it to maintain a higher body temperature than its surroundings. This makes it a popular choice for sushi and sashimi, thanks to its firm texture and mild flavor. However, when it comes to pregnancy, there's a bit of a controversy surrounding its safety.

The primary concern with opah during pregnancy revolves around its potential mercury content. Mercury is a heavy metal that can accumulate in fish, particularly those that are large, long-lived, and higher up the food chain. High levels of mercury can be harmful to a developing fetus, potentially affecting its brain and nervous system.

While the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not issued specific advisories regarding opah consumption during pregnancy, it recommends limiting consumption of fish that are known to have high mercury levels, such as **swordfish, shark, king mackerel, and tilefish**.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also provides guidance on mercury levels in fish, with a focus on pregnant women, nursing mothers, and young children. Their recommendations are based on the "Fish Advisories" issued by individual states.

So, where does opah fit into this?

Unfortunately, there's not enough conclusive data available to definitively state whether opah is safe to eat during pregnancy. Some research suggests that opah may have higher mercury levels than other fish, but more data is needed to confirm this.

However, considering the potential risks associated with mercury exposure, it's generally recommended to err on the side of caution and limit or avoid eating opah during pregnancy.

Here are some additional factors to consider:

* Source of the Opah: Opah caught in different regions can have varying mercury levels. If you choose to consume opah, ensure it's sourced from areas known to have low mercury levels.
* Frequency of Consumption: Even if opah has moderate mercury levels, occasional consumption is likely less concerning than frequent consumption.
* Individual Tolerance: Some individuals may have a higher tolerance to mercury than others. If you have concerns about mercury exposure, consult with your healthcare provider.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to eat opah during pregnancy is a personal one, and it's best to discuss it with your healthcare provider. They can assess your individual risk factors and provide personalized advice.

Remember, prioritizing your health and the well-being of your baby is paramount.

If you have any further questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider. They are your best resource for ensuring a healthy and safe pregnancy.
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New UH study: OK for pregnant women to eat most fish. ... The guidelines also said ahi, ono and opah should not be eaten more than once every two weeks; many other fish, including aku, canned tuna, cod, grouper, halibut, mahimahi, nairagi, orange roughy and pollock, should be eaten only once a week.read more >>